My own religion believes that two people, whether they are same sex or opposite sex, have the right to commit their lives to each other in marriage.

Mr. Clayton’s approach violates the first amendment of the constitution (printed on the same page as his letter) in two ways: First, it would establish in state law his religious belief in preference to other religions that would allow same-sex marriage. Second, it would prohibit the free exercise of any religion that allows same-sex marriage, including mine.

I call upon the Illinois Legislature to pass the bill permitting same-sex marriage. The bill is written so it does not infringe on Mr. Clayton's religion to refuse to perform same-sex marriages, and it allows religions that are willing to perform same-sex marriages to do so.